Train Strike Alternative

Grumpy_chap

I need to travel Twickenham to Reading (return) tomorrow but just found out there is a train strike.

I asked at the local station today about what the schedule is and the answer, helpful as ever, was "full normal service - we won't have information about strike until the strike happens".

Anyway, I realised the Elizabeth Line now goes to Reading so thought, if I get the bus to Richmond to start.  If the train is running, then happy days.  Alternatively, I can take District Line to Ealing Broadway and then Elizabeth Line to Reading.

If I do this, does anyone know whether a standard day-return ticket will just work, or do I need a different ticket?  I don't think Oyster will go as far as Reading even though on the tube network.

MilesT6060842

Grumpy_chap said:

I need to travel Twickenham to Reading (return) tomorrow but just found out there is a train strike.

If I do this, does anyone know whether a standard day-return ticket will just work, or do I need a different ticket?  I don't think Oyster will go as far as Reading even though on the tube network.

Oyster (incl 60+ I think) not valid beyond West Drayton, Freedom passes are (on the EL). 

Contactless is the convenient option but worth checking online using TfL fare finder and National Rail Websites to see if there is a cheaper return/travelcard option especially if you have a railcard (Contactless will charge full single fare each way) and/or are travelling offpeak.  If you have an Oyster card with a season ticket (or 60+) you may find it cost effective to buy a paper extension ticket at a ticket office (or get a ticket online from West Drayton), you won't need to touch out en route if you have a season ticket, and then exit Reading station using your extension ticket. 

Some rail strikes have affected the EL as well.  Another option (likely more expensive) is to get to Heathrow airport (by whatever route is possible) then take the RailAir express coach to Reading.

spenderdave

It is an Aslef strike tomorrow, Wednesday. On SWR only their depot drivers are taking part, not their main drivers, and as in past Aslef strikes they will be running a more or less normal service with the odd cancellation. So Twickenham to Reading will be OK.

Don't try to do that journey on Friday though, when the RMT are out. Nothing on that line west of Staines towards Reading.

Grumpy_chap

Thank you for the comments.
The rail-air bus was a good idea that I'd not though of, but I will go to the station as normal and try my luck.  If there is nothing, I'll bus to Richmond, District Line and Elizabeth Line.  Always worth exploring alternative options as you never know when they'll be needed for other reasons.
I'll post back with outcomes tomorrow evening

spenderdave

Just checked online at https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk, everything on the Reading line running spot on time.

Grumpy_chap

Thanks - got the standard direct train for outbound, very empty.
Hope for similar return

Grumpy_chap

Return seems good as well.
Gladly, unaffected by the strike action.